Chiv Culture – “Cupid” Video Premiere: Recorded Live at WNYU FM, NYC

I love hip-hop music. I love quality live music. I love lyrical prowess. I love songs about love. I particularly love sharing examples where all of these qualities come together in a perfect storm of musical discovery worthy of shining light on.

This opportunity presented itself in fine fashion when I became aware of Chiv Culture’s video for “Cupid,” recorded live on-air at New York University’s WNYU radio. Chiv Culture, a smattering of musicians and vocalists who have only fully coalesced as an official group weeks ago, delivered a swinging, feel-good performance that epitomized the type of jazz/hip-hop fusion vibe currently blossoming within the five boroughs.

Chiv Culture not only brings trained musicianship to the table — several group members are enrolled at The School of Jazz at The New School — but a mantra that doesn’t tend to get associated with rap music. “Good deeds, good vibes, good music,” states lead vocalist Akinyemi, when describing the band’s moniker. “We represent chivalry culture.”

To be fair, despite public perception, hip-hop abounds with the types of styles and sounds that Chiv Culture embodies, particularly in big cities where live musicianship and multi-genre influences merge with hip-hop soundscapes and emcees exuding verbal dexterity, like New York. Unfortunately, in some cases, the sum doesn’t quite equal the parts, and the result is less than inspiring. Chiv Culture avoids this trap with a well-orchestrated display of music, lyricism and atmosphere, exciting the musical senses, leaving at least this listener interested in hearing more.

If, after viewing the video for “Cupid,” you feel the same, you will be pleased to know that Chiv Culture will be performing shortly in the New York City area, as part of the House of Hip-Hop Festival, a four-night celebration of jazz/hip-hop fusion orchestrated by promotion company Resonator.

The festival seeks to highlight several groups that demonstrate the best that New York’s jazz/hip-hop fusion scene has to offer. Despite their freshness on the scene, Chiv Culture should feel right at home.

Chiv Culture will be performing on July 9th at The Kymberle Project in Brooklyn, as part of the inaugural House of Hip-Hop Fusion Festival. 

As a blessing to Birthplace Magazine readers, Chiv Culture is offering $5 off of the cost of the festival wristband, which allows access to all four days’ events. Simply enter “chivculture601” at checkout. Act fast, early-bird wristbands are likely to sell out soon.